Located in Harlingen, Texas, The Marine Military Academy (MMA) is a college-preparatory boarding school for young men in grades 7-12 with an optional postgraduate year. Since 1965, MMA has been the only private school based on the practices and principles of the United States Marine Corps.
MMA aims to provide a positive academic experience and promote physical and moral growth in every cadet. MMA offers a structured environment without distractions faced in a traditional school setting. Throughout their time at the academy, cadets learn to take ownership of their lives and develop the tools they need to succeed in college and personal lives.
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Rick Rodriguez is a graduate of MMA. This summer, he began serving as the Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement & Admissions.
“In the spring of 1979 my mother made the decision that I would be joining my two older brothers at MMA,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez began the academy in Aug. 1979 and graduated in May 1985.
“I strongly believe that MMA redirected my life,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez had been struggling in his public school with discipline issues. His mother worked at MMA at the time. With his two older brothers there, she wanted all her boys to receive the same education.
“[MMA] taught me how to get through life’s trials and tribulations that came my way,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez described his drill instructor as a father figure to him throughout his six years at the academy. Rodriguez credits him with instilling perseverance, responsibility, and the practice of taking accountability for his actions.
“MMA instilled in me to be the best person I could be and to strive to apply the Marine Corps’ principles, values and traits,” Rodriguez said.
Without MMA, Rodriguez said he would have never joined and retired from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, nor would he have ever joined and retired as a Criminal Investigator with the United States Department of Justice.
“The skills you learn while at MMA are with you forever. From learning how to study, to self-discipline, and most [importantly] learning how to lead others,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez feels blessed to be in his current position as the Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement & Admissions.
“This is my opportunity to give back to a school that directly shaped my life and molded me into the person I am today,” Rodriguez said.
MMA has been home to thousands of young men from across the world. Their proven educational model has helped cadets earn higher grades, increase physical strength, and build good character. The academy prides itself on its 100% college acceptance rate.
Though academics are a main focal point for MMA, athletics is also highly valuable. Regardless of experience, every cadet must participate in the daily afternoon activity.
Activities range from flight training and band to traditional sports. The activities are built into the program to foster teamwork, instill confidence, and empower a spirit of camaraderie.
In addition to the college-preparatory boarding school, MMA offers a highly physical four-week military summer camp. Boys ages 11-18 can sign up to participate in challenging and exciting outdoor activities to instill discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
To learn more about MMA, visit mma-tx.org or call (956) 423-6006, for information on admissions, email admission@mma-tx.org.
